What is Consent?

Consent in a dating relationship is when partners mutually agree to sexual activity. This can include hugging, kissing, touching or sex.

Both partners must be consenting. Consent is not simply granting permission for a particular activity. For consent to truly be given, it must be clear and enthusiastic! Also, just because someone consents to something one time, it does not mean that they will always consent. Consent must be given each time and a person can always change their mind.

Consent is…

Enthusiastic

A clear yes

Freely given

Active and not assumed

It is not consent if…

A person is simply “giving in” or has been pressured

A person feels unsafe saying no

A person is drunk or high

One of the persons is underage.

One person is in a position of authority over the other person (for example, a teacher, a coach, a supervisor…).

Take a couple of minutes to watch this fun video about consent.

How to ask for consent

Asking for consent can feel awkward or uncomfortable. This is especially true if you are new to relationships and sex.

Asking for consent sounds scarier than it actually is because it is really just about checking in to see how your partner is feeling. Asking for consent can even be fun or sexy once you get comfortable asking.